Gambia reach U17 final and secure AFCON qualification

Gambia have qualified for the U17 Africa Cup of Nations after reaching the final of the UFOA-A tournament. The Young Scorpions will meet Senegal on Sunday for the regional title, creating an all-West African final between the two teams that came through the semifinals.

The Gambians made the stronger start against Liberia and went ahead in the 14th minute. Alieu Saine finished with a left-footed volley to give his side the lead. Liberia remained a threat and had an opportunity to draw level before the interval, but its 41st-minute penalty struck the crossbar.

Gambia increased its advantage after the break when Omar Badjie scored in the 66th minute. Liberia responded with sustained pressure and eventually pulled one goal back through substitute Lamin Kamara in the 77th minute.

The Liberians continued to create chances during the final 10 minutes, but Gambia kept its lead to win 2-1. The result sends the Young Scorpions into Sunday’s final and confirms their place at the continental U17 tournament. Senegal had already secured its final berth by defeating Guinea 3-0, setting up the decisive meeting between the two finalists.